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How boaters can protect Florida’s coastal waters

Here in South Florida, we’re known for warm, crystal clear waters, and that’s what makes these waters perfect for fishing, snorkeling, and so many other fun activities.

Helping South Florida’s coastal waters stay healthy, clean and beautiful is something every boater can do. The small, mindful actions we take today can help to safeguard these waters for our children and many more generations to come. As people who love life on the water, it’s vitalfor us to be stewards of our marine environment, taking care of it and teaching our children to respect and care for it too.

Read on for six tips to help you be an environmentally-friendly boater.

Pick up litter (even if it’s not yours!)

A good rule of thumb is that everything you bring out on the boat should come back with you. This includes not just garbage, but also leftover food. Don’t let cans, bottles, bags or wrappers blow overboard while you’re cruising around. We recommend bringing a small garbage bag with
you to hold your trash.

If you’d like to do your own litter pick-up, bring along an extra garbage bag or two, gloves and a trash grabber to snap up floating bits of trash when you see them. Keep a keen out along mangroves and sandbars for floating culprits. The water will thank you by being crystal clear and turquoise.

Pack re-usable containers for drinks and snacks

At Gulfstream Boat Club, any trash you bring back to the dock we’ll be happy to dispose of or recycle for you. But the best way to combat trash in our water is to make none in the first place!

An easy way to avoid litter on your boat (and litter back on land) is to pack your snacks and drinks in reusable containers. Resealable silicone bags, snap-lid food containers, and reusable water bottles and tumblers are your best bet.

Watch your depth (keep your engine out of the grass)

Keeping an eye on your depth will not only save your hull and propeller, but will protect wildlife that thrives in shallow waters. Sea-grass and coral reefs play an essential role in keeping the water clean of debris as well as supporting wildlife by acting as both a food source and a hunting ground.

When sea-grass is healthy and untouched it’s great at helping to filter sediment out of the water, keeping it crystal clear and turquoise. It also makes a great hiding spot for fish so instead of driving through sea-grass, try casting a line through it instead and see if you can catch dinner!

Take only pictures, leave only ripples

As you cruise the Intracoastal, you’ll notice signs along the way asking you to watch your speed and look out for manatees. These gentle giants are a delight to see up close but they’re also notoriously slow swimmers who struggle to keep out of the way of fast moving boats.

Be ready with your camera or a pair of binoculars to take a closer look at wildlife rather than motoring into their space. Sometimes you can see a lot more if you give animals a wide berth and let them go about their business. When you’re fishing, try not to injure or kill any fish you’re not planning on eating. When you’re snorkeling or diving, leave stars, shells and corals
untouched and in the water where they belong.

Choose reef-safe sun protection

Sunscreen is essential for protecting our skin out on the water, but some ingredients have been proven to be harmful to aquatic wildlife, especially corals. Avoid sunscreens that include ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate. Instead, choose sunscreens that are biodegradable, and contain mineral ingredients such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.

You can double-down on sun protection by also wearing UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) clothing. Whether you’re spending the day in or on the water, wearing protective clothing means you won’t have to continually reapply your sunblock.

Get involved!

Boaters in South Florida have some wonderful options for getting involved, both on and off the water. There are many organizations looking out for our coastal waters that do great hands-on work with conservation and preservation, publish important research, work collaboratively with
local and state government, and have events and opportunities for the general public to get involved.

Whether you want to provide broader support or help a specific area or effort, some local not-for-profits we think are doing a great job include: Captains for Clean Water , Bonefish & Tarpon Trust , Miami Waterkeeper , and Debris Free Oceans.

There are many ways to be a good steward of our marine environment, and these tips can help you get started.

Contact us to rent a boat and get out on the water!

Taking A Look At The Top Fishing Spots Around The World

A true fisherman is always looking for a bigger, better catch, but there’s only so much you can accomplish in your local lakes and streams. If the local lakes aren’t doing it for you anymore, try out some of the top fishing spots in the world. You won’t regret it when you come out with the biggest fish you’ve ever seen!

Nova Scotia, Canada

If you’re looking for a chance at some big hauls, Nova Scotia has plenty of fish for you. Nova Scotia is the home of some absolutely huge bluefin tuna, including the world-record bluefin, weighing in at 1,496-lbs! That’s no fluke either; there have been plenty more 1,000-lb bluefin caught here over the years.

You’re going to need a sturdy rod, and you’re going to need to put up a fight against a fish that big, but if you’re up for it and you get the chance it’s a hard trip for any fisherman to pass up.

Among other available fish in Nova Scotia are rainbow and lake trout, Atlantic salmon, and various types of perch.

Key West, Florida

Few are more obsessed with fishing than the people of Key West, Florida. The fishing is year-round here thanks to the climate, and the fish are plentiful, from mahi-mahi to tarpon and groupers. Among the species you’ll be able to catch are the Amberjack, Black Grouper, Bluefin Tuna, and Cobia, all of which can reach massive sizes and put up a good fight for the experienced fisherman.

There are plenty of seafood restaurants in Key West, too, serving up locally caught fish. This means you can enjoy not only the fishing but the eating as well. Sounds like a pretty great vacation!

Cairns, Australia

Cairns, Australia offers top-tier fishing and a chance at the giant black marlin, a fish that many who enjoy the sport only dream of catching on their hook. The giant black marlin swims at a top speed of 130 km/h and weighs up to 1,600 lbs making for a very impressive catch. Who can resist giving that a go?

Australia is full of diverse fish species and locations. Whether you’re looking to do some reef fishing, lake fishing, or fly fishing, it’s all available to you. Beyond the legendary giant black marlin, you’ll also have a chance to catch mangrove red snappers, coral trout, barracuda, and flatheads.

Head down to Australia between September and December for the best chances, when the water is nice and warm.

The Southern US (Georgia, Alabama, etc.)

The south may not be the first spot you think of when you think about fishing, but it should definitely be on your mind. Not only are there a lot of fish available in the south, but a lot of different ways to catch these fish, including the unforgettable experience of noodling!

Noodling, otherwise known as “hillbilly handfishing” is exactly what it sounds like. Get on your rubber boots, get in the water, and grab for those catfish. You’ll have a chance at some massive catfish going noodling in the south, and catfish tend to make for a very tasty meal.

Belize

If you want high chances of pulling a trophy fish, look no further than the gorgeous waters of Belize. The 200-mile long Belize Barrier reef makes the country a top spot for big, beautiful fish along with top-notch scenery. Not only will you see a lot of smaller fish and crustaceans, but some truly astounding trophy-size catches.

A few species are catch-and-release only, like Bonefish, but there are plenty more that you can keep and enjoy with some lemon and garlic. From blue and white marlin, to tuna, sailfish and King Mackerels, you’ve got plenty of opportunities to catch a trophy-size fish in Belize. Rent a nice boat and get out on those toasty Belize waters, you won’t regret it.

Kola Peninsula, Russia

Springtime in Russia is fishing season and offers one of the most unique fishing experiences on earth. Fishermen from all around the world travel to Russia’s Umba River in the spring to witness and catch some of the biggest Atlantic salmon the waters have to offer. It’s not the easiest to navigate location, and you may run into a bear or two, but if you’re up for the challenge you’re in for an unforgettable fishing experience.

Amazon Basin, Brazil

Ever thought about fishing for piranha? Take a trip to Brazil and you can make that thought a reality. You can even eat them in some places in Brazil, a nice little piece of revenge for all the fingers bitten by the species over the years.

Piranha are very common in the Amazon River, and while they’re not the biggest fish, catching one is certainly a unique experience. You’ll need to use meat for bait and a strong lure and wire to avoid having the fish bite right through your equipment. These things have some seriously sharp teeth.

There is a lot of fish in the Amazon Basin, including Arapaima, Candiru, and armored catfish. You’re sure to see some interesting and new species fishing in Brazil.

Visit One of the Top Fishing Spots Today

Whether you’re a novice or experienced fisher, you’re going to thank yourself for broadening your horizons and fishing in one of the top fishing spots listed above. Not only will you have a shot at some truly unique fish to show off to your friends, but you’ll make an absolutely unforgettable memory in the process. Don’t sleep on these spots; make the trip today and don’t look back!

And if you need a boat for all that fishing you love, check out our products page for more information. Feel free to contact us with and questions, comments or concerns.

Does Boat Club Membership Include a Captain?

You don’t need to know how to drive a boat to be a boat club member, but if you do, we have many options for you to enjoy!

As a South Florida boat club, Gulfstream Boat Club offers access to both the Intracoastal and the Atlantic Ocean. Navigating the waters of the Intracoastal requires being aware of its zones, inlets, depths, sandbars, and shoals (see our handy custom nautical chart). Cruising or fishing in the Atlantic near Delray Beach, Boynton Beach, or Hypoluxo also requires quite a bit of boating experience.

So, as a GBC member, do you have to know how to drive a boat? 

Do you want to take out your own boat? Gulfstream Boat Club members can take out any of our boats ranging from 21 to 32 feet on their own. We offer 20-plus top-of-the-line deck boats, pontoon boats, and center-console and dual console boats; it’s the newest fleet in South Florida! Our 35′ Contenders and 40′ Intrepid require a captain.

Can I learn to drive a boat? 

Absolutely! All new Gulfstream Boat Club memberships come with a complimentary one-hour orientation with one of our captains. All of our captains are U.S. Coast Guard certified. If you would like more instruction on how to drive a boat, we can also organize further lessons.

GBC captains are all US Coast Guard certified.

Why are GBC’s captains the best in South Florida? 

All of our captains are U.S. Coast Guard certified, and very familiar with the waters in and around Palm Beach County. If a fishing excursion, a trip to Peanut Island, or a family cruise down the Intracoastal is in your plans, our captains will design the perfect outing for you.

What if I just want to sit back and relax on my GBC boat rental? 

No problem! Most members do. Simply reserve a boat by calling us at 561.865.7797 and we’ll pair you with not only the perfect boat, but the perfect captain.
Boating is our passion; make it yours. Gulfstream Boat Club offers the best and newest fleet of boats in South Florida, and our experienced captains will ensure that you enjoy a great day on the water. Give us a call seven days a week at 561.865.7797 and we’ll get you started!

Fishing Boat Rentals: Summer Fishing Fever

How reliable are fishing boat rentals in Florida in the summer?

Late summer in Florida is still, quiet, and—yes—HOT. But keep it a secret that it’s one of the best times of year for a fishing boat rental in Florida. July and August are great months for drift fishing, a boat fishing technique in which you allow the boat to move with the wind and current over an area in which an abundance of fish is likely. It allows you to cover a lot of ground, but the sea conditions have to be good.

How do I reserve a fishing boat rental?

In a GBC fishing boat rental this time of year, off the Florida Southeastern coast you might catch bonito, wahoo, snapper, or mahi. Simply log onto the GBC app to reserve a fishing boat at our Delray Beach or Lantana locations. Or give us a call at 561.865.7797—we’re open seven days a week.

Group of friends on Fishing Trip
The GBC team enjoyed a fishing trip on the quiet waters of Florida and the Bahamas.

How many friends can I take on a fishing boat?

We have fishing boats from 21 to 35 feet. For example, our 2019 26-foot Billistic seats 10 people, has twin Yamaha engines, a T-top with outriggers, and Bluetooth Polk audio, Garmin, and electronics. It’s got a great layout for comfort cruising, and it’s the perfect fishing boat for young families.

Do GBC fishing boat rentals have captains?

GBC has a crew of licensed boat captains who know the Intracoastal and Atlantic better than anyone. They can also design a great day of fishing, and give you all the tips on local fishing spots. Our fishing boats are fully rigged. GBC boat rentals include bait and ice, and our boats have coolers to bring home your catch!

What’s for dinner?

Close up of cobia fish dish
This cobia recipe from the Foodie Patootie blog is the perfect way to prepare your fresh catch!

Cobia is a popular summertime catch, and a GBC favorite. It’s a flaky white fish similar to tilapia. Here’s a recipe from the Foodie Patootie blog for Sauteed Cobia with Tomatoes and Capers; it’s a quick, simple recipe to try on the just-caught fish you are going to be bringing home from your GBC fishing boat rental!

Boating is our passion; make it yours. A Gulfstream Boat Club is more than Fishing Boat Rentals. Our membership pays for itself in fun, fish, and memories, and you’re free of the hassles of boat ownership. Give us a call at 561.865.7797 to get out on the water!

Father’s Day Gift Ideas in 2019

Gulfstream Boat Club has got great Father’s Day gift ideas!

Sunday, June 16, is Father’s Day, and out on the waters of South Florida is the best place to enjoy it. Gulfstream Boat Club has a variety of Father’s Day gift ideas for you. Make Father’s Day 2019 your best one ever.

It’s not too late to plan a memorable Father’s Day! Did you know that our boat club can plan special events? Let GBC help you design an unforgettable day that the whole family will enjoy. Whether you are planning a sunset cruise, ocean fishing, or a group outing on the Intracoastal, GBC can make it incredibly simple and easy.

Father’s Day Gift Ideas in 2019: Family with kids on a boat in South Florida
GBC owner Alex Warner and his family, ready for Father’s Day!

 

Here are four great Father’s Day gift ideas from GBC:

1. Boat Club Membership.

Father’s Day brings new members to Gulfstream Boat Club every year. We have a variety of memberships to suit every need and budget. Why own a boat when GBC gives you access to an entire fleet? Here are more details on our many levels of membership. It’s so much better than owning a boat. We’ve got the newest fleet around, and new boats are being added regularly. Definetely one of the best Father’s Day gift ideas we can recommend.

2. Brunch at a Dockside Restaurant.

We can organize a cruise to a dockside restaurant for Father’s Day brunch. Many of the restaurants along the Intracoastal have special menus or events planned that day. Deck 84 and Key Lime House are just two. And arriving by boat makes it an extra special day.

3. GBC Gift Certificate.

A gift certificate is a welcome and easy Father’s Day gift. Cover a captain, fuel, a half-day rental, or more; gift certificates can be provided in any amount. We can wrap the gift certificate, or send it anywhere for you. Call us at 561.865.7797 for details!

Father’s Day Gift Ideas in 2019: Boat on shallow water of South Florida.
A cruise to Peanut Island is a great Father’s Day excursion.

4. GBC Fishing Charter or Boat Cruise.

Do you want more Father’s Day gift ideas? Catch your own Father’s Day dinner! Check out our blog post on our favorite spring catch recipes for fish that are biting right here, right now. One of our licensed captains can plan a memorable excursion for you, Dad, and family and friends. Book early, as this weekend fills up quickly.

Any questions about Father’s Day 2019 gifts or Gulfstream Boat Club membership? We’re open seven days a week; call us at 561.865.7797 anytime. And Happy Father’s Day from GBC!

3 Key West Boats to look for in 2019!

Key West boats “Built by fishermen, for fishermen.”

For more than 30 years, Key West has built high-quality, high-value boats. Their boats offer uncompromised attention to safety, including positive flotation, in every model. Key West Boats feature no-wood construction, combined with lightweight coring materials and directional high strength glass. It’s a perfect partnership for Gulfstream Boat Club.

Yes, we are proud to announce that Gulfstream Boat Club will be turning all our boats over in 2019 for an entirely new fleet!

We’re giving all of our Gulfstream Boat Club members our holiday gift early this year: GBC will feature an all-new fleet of boats in 2019! We have partnered with Key West Boats to provide new dual-console and center-console boats in different sizes; they’re great crossover boats for fishing, cruising, sightseeing, or whatever excursion you have in mind.

Here’s a preview of our new boats:

Family Sportsman 239 Center Console:

The Key West 239FS offers the largest cockpit in its class, and is loaded with features for both family comfort and serious fishing. Enjoy the comfort of the full width bench seat in the rear and the optional front facing seating in the bow for relaxing day on the water with family and friends, or hit the blue water safe and secure in a very capable long range offshore fishing platform. Fishing features include a live well, rod storage racks, trolling rod holders, and even an insulated, macerated under floor fish box up front. The 239FS is ready for whatever water sports your family enjoys.

Key West Boat FS239 console detail
The Key West FS239 is just one of the all-new boats we’ll have available for rental at GBC in 2019.

Key West Boat FS239 aerial schematic
This center console boat is great for fishing or cruising.

Family Sportsman 239 Dual Console:

The latest addition to Key West’s Family Sportsman lineup, and the biggest dual console, bow rider to date, the 239DFS is loaded with amenities, comfort, style, and performance. Like the rest of the fleet this big runabout is self-bailing and foam-filled to provide level and upright flotation, giving your family one of the safest platforms on the water today.

Key West Boat FS 239 cruising in calm waters
Our members are going to love this sturdy, speedy Key West FS 239!

Aerial view of Key West Boat FS 239
We’re getting two of these dual-console boats in early 2019.

Billistic 281 Center Console:

The dual-engine 281 Billistic is the most popular of Key West’s Billistic line, with enough fuel capacity to make it a serious offshore fishing machine, but also a family-friendly recreational platform. Like all Billistics, the 281 is built with a no-compromise approach, featuring the best of everything from hull construction to wiring, with special attention to access for service to keep it all running and dependable.

Key West Boat 28-foot Billistic docked in Marina
Meet the Key West 28-foot Billistic.

This center-console boat is perfect for your next outing with family and friends.

Call us at 561.865.7797 for information on how to be the first to try our new models! New pontoons on deck for 2019 as well.

Boating is our passion; make it yours. New boats for the new year: it’s Gulfstream Boat’s holiday gift to you!

Bahamas Boat Charter: 3 Important Questions and Answers

Visit Sapona Shipwreck on your next Bahamas Boat Charter
We don’t skimp on Staff Appreciation Day at GBC.

Here at GBC, Staff Appreciation Day isn’t just celebrated at a restaurant or sports bar. We just got back from a Bahamas boat charter on our 40-foot Intrepid! Two days of fishing, swimming with stingrays, eating fresh fish, and some golf cart hijinks…

Before you get too jealous, remember that we can organize the same for you and your family, friends, or staff:

Find out how to make a charter to the Bahamas from Florida an easy and enjoyable trip.

Boat Charter to Bimini
You can cruise to Bimini on our 40-foot Intrepid in just a few hours.

What’s the best time of year for a Bahamas boat charter?

Really, anytime works. It depends on what you want to fish for. We went in September: mahi season. After leaving GBC’s location at the Palm Beach Yacht Center around 7am on a Tuesday, we arrived in Bimini at the Hilton at Resorts World Bimini around 10am, a luxurious 750-acre marina, hotel, and casino.

Bimini is only 50 miles from Miami, but it’s a world away: this westernmost island of the Bahamas features unspoiled blue waters and white sand beaches, marine life, even a shipwreck. Bimini is also known as the “Sport Fishing Capital of the World.”

Where to stay in Bimini?

After unloading our supplies at our Resorts World villa (the perfect landing for a family or group Bahamas boat charter), we went out and fished for mahi and wahoo. Later Alex took us on a quick cruise out to the Sapona Shipwreck, a concrete-hulled cargo steamer that ran aground near Bimini during a hurricane in 1926. It’s a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and jumping off the wreck.

We cooled off in the pool, showered, and headed to the Resorts World casino for some burgers and gambling. (A Bahamas fishing charter doesn’t have to be all boating, all the time!) After dinner, we fished off the dock, and took the villa’s golf carts for a spin ‘til the wee hours.

Catch some dolphin in your next Bahamas Boat Charter
Mahi were caught—and cooked, back at our villa!

How’s the fishing in the Bahamas?

The alarms went off at 6:30am; early, yes, but no one wanted to miss out on another full Bimini day. We trolled and caught some more dolphin until the late morning, then went snorkeling. After stopping at the restaurant at Cat Cay Yacht Club for lunch, we headed to another one of Bimini’s landmarks: Honeymoon Harbor. We swam with nurse sharks and stingrays—dozens of them. Once we turned off the Intrepid’s motors, they swarmed the boat, making it an unforgettable stop.

On your Bahamas Boat Charter, do not forget to swim with rays
Swimming with nurse sharks and stingrays at Honeymoon Harbor.

Back at the villa, we barbequed our fresh fish and steaks for dinner, and celebrated Staff Appreciation Day GBC-style. After some night-time fishing and swimming off the docks, we turned in early.

Family weekend to Bahamas with a Bahamas Boat Charter
Treat your family, friends, or even your staff to a Bahamas boating weekend!

On Thursday morning, we were out the door and back on the Intrepid by 7:30am. We arrived back in Delray before noon, feeling fully “appreciated.”

Ready to plan your own Bahamas boat charter? Among other things, our close proximity to the Bahamas and our spectacular 40-foot Intrepid make Gulfstream Boat Club a truly unique boat club. Bimini is a colorful, warm, exceptionally fun vacation spot. Call us at 561.865.7797 and we’ll get you there!

Cost of Owning a Boat?

How much does it cost to own a boat?

It’s important to remember that the purchase price of a boat is just the beginning of the cost commitment! Here are some annual costs to consider when thinking a buying a boat:

Boat Trailer Cost:

You’ll need a trailer to transport and store the boat (and be prepared for hurricanes!). A trailer can range in price from $1,500 to more than $5,000. A trailer will need basic upkeep as well; tires, brakes, and general maintenance, plus monthly storage fees if you can’t keep it on your property when your boat’s in the water.

Boat Insurance Average Cost:

You’ll need at least liability coverage, and likely damage coverage, especially for a new boat, in case of accident or theft. Boat insurance can range from $1,000 to $5,000 per year.

Florida Boating License:

Florida law requires anyone who was born on or after January 1, 1988, to successfully complete an approved boating safety course and obtain a Boating Safety Education Identification Card issued by the Florida Wildlife Commission. Boating safety courses are not especially expensive, but anyone who might drive your boat will have to make the commitment of time for the class.

Boat Storage options:

You will need a cover, a top, or maybe inside storage if you can’t keep the boat at your home or on your property. For outside storage, boats are typically shrinkwrapped at a cost of roughly $10-15 per foot, so a 21-foot boat might cost $200-300 to cover. Inside rack storage costs more, as the boat is better protected from the elements. Figure on roughly $25-$30/foot for inside storage, so that 21-footer would cost about $600 per month.

Boat Safety Equipment and accessories:

You’ll not only need safety gear (life vests, horn, signal flares, etc.), but you’ll most likely want a stereo, lighting, watersports towing equipment, etc., to fully enjoy your boat. The South Florida sun is as strong as it gets and its effects are magnified when out on the water. You should thinking about wearing not only sunscreen but hats, sunglasses, and sun-protective clothing.

Boat Maintenance Costs:

Much like a car, a boat requires a lot of regular maintenance. Like a car, you have cleaning, oil changes, and engine maintenance costs—but then add hull maintenance, storage, and haul-out (if not keeping in the water year-round). Costs for these services can vary widely, based on the boat size, fresh water or salt water, if the boat is new or used, etc.

Boat Marina:

If you keep the boat at a marina, you will incur monthly costs, and they’re high in South Florida. In-water dock space can range from $1,000 to more than $5,000 per season.

Saltwater wear and tear:

If you’re planning on taking your boat out for some deep-sea fishing, not just cruising the Intracoastal, keep in mind that salt water is definitely harsher on a boat and engine than freshwater.

How much does it cost to own a boat?

Do you really need to own a boat?

Have you researched the cost of owning a boat yourself? When we explain the benefits of of Gulfstream Boat Club to a potential new member, they very often ask, “Why would anyone own a boat?” We at Gulfstream Boat Club agree! Many of our members are former powerboat or yacht owners who don’t want the expense and hassle of owning their own boat anymore. On the other hand, many of our members are interested in eventually owning a boat, or learning more about the boating lifestyle, and a boat club is a great way to try it out.

cost of owning a boat for the family
This could be you! Fishing on the weekends—free of the hassle of boat ownership.

Image: Trees Full of Money

Why commit to one kind of boating experience when you can enjoy several?

When you purchase a boat, you have to decide on one kind of experience on the water. You might want a great fishing boat. Or maybe a cruiser for trips down the Intracoastal. Perhaps you are in the market for a pontoon boat for larger family parties and outings. But what if you want to experience all of these outings? The question is, Why choose just one kind of boat? At Gulfstream Boat Club, we have a wide variety of boats, which allows you as a member to go deep-sea fishing one weekend and take your kids tubing the next. Then, on Mother’s Day, you can take everyone on a cruise to a dockside lunch. You can’t beat the flexibility of having access to several kinds of boats!

Why settle for one boat when you can have a whole fleet?

As a Gulfstream Boat Club member, you’ll have access to more than twenty boats, in many sizes and models, seven days a week. That means that with one purchase you can have a variety of experiences. One of our experienced captains can take you and your friends on a fishing excursion. We supply the fishing gear if you need it. Or a captain can take you out on the Intracoastal for a cruise to brunch at a dockside restaurant—perfect for Mother’s Day, Thanksgiving, or other holidays which require keeping lots of family members happy and busy! Ask yourself: What is the cost of owning a boat—plus another five or six?

Or, if you are comfortable at the helm, take out one of our center console, dual console, deck, or pontoon boats yourself. Gulfstream Boat Club can recommend outings both south and north of our Delray Beach, Boynton Beach, and Hypoluxo locations. How about a trip to Peanut Island, where you can dock, tour the island, or just take a swim? Or motor south to Lake Boca, where there’s plenty to do and see. Each member of GBC receives their own custom-designed map of the area, which highlights boating and fishing sites you won’t want to miss.

Cost of owning a boat = commitment of time and money

Owning a boat is a huge commitment of time and money, especially for a busy family. Kids’ activities might make it difficult to use your own boat every weekend. Gulfstream Boat Club makes it easy to enjoy a boat when it’s convenient for you. All of our boats are expertly maintained, and have life jackets, stereos, depth finders, and up-to-date electronics. No need to stop for fuel—we’ll fill ‘er up. And we have an online reservation system that allows you to book boats anytime.

cost of owning a boat: huge time investment
A GBC membership allows you to teach your kids a love of boating!

Share the decision to not own a boat—and share the fun!

And why not consider combining business with pleasure? GBC offers a corporate membership perfect for business partners to share. If you’re a real estate agent, take clients new to the area for a nice cruise on the Intracoastal, and get ready to sell that house. GBC’s larger boats could host a work event of up to ten or twelve people. Forget that boring business dinner and let us help you plan a memorable evening out on the water!

cost of owning a boat: Corporate Boat Memberships
Rev up that bachelorette party or other event by taking it out on the water!

When you learn the cost of owning a boat, the idea becomes daunting and can be a deal-breaker for many people who would like to enjoy boating or fishing in South Florida. That’s why Gulfstream Boat Club is such a great concept. Being a boat club member is flexible, affordable, safe, and enjoyable. Leave the maintenance and other hassles of boating to us, and focus on the good parts!

Call GBC at 561.865.7797. Then you’re one step closer to having not just one boat to use on the weekend, but an entire fleet!

Lake Boca: Your New Weekend Plan

A great view of the Boca Inlet near Lake Boca

Lake Boca the Perfect boat cruise destination

Instead of cruising north on your next Gulfstream Boat Club adventure, why not try cruising south? In Boca Raton, Lake Boca and the Boca Inlet area offer the perfect boat cruise destination from GBC’s Delray Beach location at Marina Delray.

One of the benefits of Gulfstream Boat Club is that we can provide a variety of experiences on the water, from deep-sea fishing to a dockside brunch. A trip to Lake Boca is more of the lazy-days-of-summer variety.

Lake Boca and Boca Raton Inlet Safety

The Boca Raton Inlet is located on the East Coast of Florida twenty-four miles south of West Palm Beach, sixteen miles north of Fort Lauderdale, and five miles northward of Hillsboro Inlet Lighthouse, near Intracoastal Waterway Mile 1048. The first bridge was built across the Boca Raton Inlet in 1923, a wooden structure of pilings with an opening large enough to allow boats to pass through. Today, a modern drawbridge carries cars across the inlet. The bridge has a restricted opening schedule, opening every quarter-hour from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., and on demand at all other times.

Boat club members need to use care when navigating the Boca Inlet, as there are areas of shoaling. Our new GBC map clearly indicates these areas to avoid. Depth at low tide varies from one to three feet. A sandbar protrudes out of water inside the inlet on the north side. A sandbar extends underwater to within thirty feet of the south jetty. Shoaling and sandbars are continually shifting.

Boaters say that the Boca Raton Inlet is safer now that the city cleared away sand buildup in spring 2017. The city dredged the inlet after the sandbar caused some boats to run aground. The ebb shoal — an area near the mouth of the inlet that collects drifting sand — had caused trouble for boaters. Both the city and boat towing companies had reported an increase in complaints in the months beforehand.

Where to dock in Lake Boca

Boat club members can enjoy access to two hotels and a public park area on Lake Boca. The Boca Raton Resort and Club is located on the west side of the lake. The park area offers picnic areas with grills, a playground, restrooms, and showers.

Waterstone near Lake Boca
The Waterstone Resort offers waterfront dining on Lake Boca.

One of Gulfstream Boat Club members’ favorite destinations is the Waterstone Resort and Marina, which offers Boca’s only waterfront dining experience. You can dock your boat, and enjoy a meal at Boca Landing restaurant. The menu showcases for South Florida’s freshest seasonal flavors. Savor a bountiful European breakfast table, linger over grilled steak and local seafood for dinner, and sample boutique wines from vineyards around the world. Whether you’re dining indoors or at an outdoor table overlooking the Intracoastal, a memorable experience is in store.

 

Brunch at Waterstone in Lake Boca
Enjoy fine dining and a rare Florida summer breeze at the Waterstone.

Also, the Waterstone is now offering waterfront “Family Dinner Nights” the first Sunday of every month, with a four-course Italian meal and live music. Parties of five or less can book online at OpenTable.com; or call 561-226-3022. What a great way to spend time with family friends on a Sunday!

If you haven’t taken a cruise to Lake Boca, now is the time. Grab some friends, make a reservation at the Waterstone, and enjoy the warm breezes. Call us at 561.865.7797 today!

How to Catch Mahi Mahi in Florida

A Boater’s guide on How to Catch Mahi Mahi in Florida.

With waters as warm as they are in August, it’s the perfect time to talk about how to catch mahi mahi in Florida. Dolphinfish (Coryphaena hippurus) is better known by its Hawaiian name, mahi-mahi (and it’s also known by its Spanish name, dorado, or just as plain mahi). This offshore fish prefers deeper waters over 68 degrees—which means right now offers the ideal conditions to catch mahi mahi.

Success in how to Catch Mahi Mahi in Florida
GBC’s “Mahi” Maralyn Coscia hit the jackpot recently!

Where to find mahi mahi?

GBC’s very own Maralyn Coscia reports that she took her mom out fishing off the coast of Boynton Beach a few weeks ago. She was afraid that her mom would be bored—but they were lucky enough to catch more mahi mahi than they could even legally keep! They cleaned and flash-froze enough to keep in their freezers, and gave the rest to grateful friends and family.

Catching Mahi Mahi in Florida

Mahi mahi is undoubtedly one of Florida’s most beautiful marine species and a favorite on menus at the local restaurants. This is because the Subtropical waters of South Florida are the perfect place to find this migratory fellow.  Here’s a little more information about how to catch mahi mahi in Florida:

According to the Fishing and Wildlife Commission’s website, mahi mahi are attracted to floating objects, and are commonly found in association with floating mats of sargassum (which is at an all-time high this year). The adult fish eat bait fish, flying fish, squid and crabs. They are fast swimmers and extremely fast growers, reaching nearly three feet in length in their first year of life.

Learn how to Catch Mahi Mahi in Florida
If you caught all this mahi, you’d be smiling too!

How to spot mahi mahi?

They are:

* Bright greenish blue back with yellow on sides
* Single dark dorsal fin extends from above the eye to the tail
* Capable of flashing purple, chartreuse and a wide range of other colors
* Body tapers sharply from head to tail
* Irregular blue or golden blotches scattered over sides

Mahi mahi can range anywhere up to 63 inches, and they usually weigh around 30 pounds. (The state record is 81 pounds, caught near Lantana; will you be next?) They resemble a pompano dolphinfish (pompano have a square-shaped tooth patch on the tongue; mahi mahi have an oval-shaped tooth patch on the tongue).

How to lure the mahi mahi?

And how do we recommend you catch mahi mahi in Florida? The Florida FWC advises that large, solitary adult fish are commonly caught while trolling natural baits such as rigged ballyhoo or cigar minnows, but they can also be caught on live bait, cut bait, artificial lures, jigs, or spoons. The tackle used to catch mahi mahi in Florida ranges from light spinning tackle for smaller schooling dolphin, to heavy trolling equipment. Chumming with cut bait or leaving a hooked fish in the water can keep schooling fish near the boat for multiple hookups.

What are the regulations for fishing mahi mahi in Florida?

There are rules for fishing for mahi mahi in Atlantic state waters. The legal gear allowed is hook and line, or spearing. In this area, the minimum size limit for mahi is 20” fork length (the fish as measured from the tip of the jaw or tip of the snout with closed mouth to the center of the fork in the tail). The daily bag limit is 10 fish per person, or 60 per vessel, whichever is less.

Though they are often served blackened, or on a sandwich, our favorite way to eat mahi mahi is just simply grilled, maybe with a little freshly made salsa. Try this delicious recipe from the Food Channel for Grilled Ginger Mahi-Mahi with Tropical Fruit Salsa, and we will be surprised if it’s not the best thing you ever ate.

Do you require hands-on training on how to Catch Mahi Mahi? The captains at GBC are fully licensed fishermen. They’ll help you learn more about how to catch, and clean a boatload of mahi mahi. The time is right in South Florida. Give us a call at 561.865.7797, and we’ll get you set up for a day of mahi mahi fishing you won’t forget!